Life after active mesothelioma treatment can be both liberating and overwhelming. Amidst the transition, keeping a comprehensive record of your cancer journey becomes a valuable compass for the future.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) recognizes this need. It has developed two essential tools to empower mesothelioma survivors: the ASCO Cancer Treatment Plan and the ASCO Mesothelioma Survivorship Care Plan.
ASCO Cancer Treatment Plan
This form can serve as a meticulous archive of your mesothelioma journey, organizing fundamental details of your care history. From treatment specifics and medication doses to surgeries and additional therapies, the ASCO Cancer Treatment Plan encapsulates the vital components of your journey. It transforms your medical history into a tangible resource, offering clarity for you and your healthcare providers.
ASCO Survivorship Care Plan
Complementing the Cancer Treatment Plan, the ASCO Survivorship Care Plan is tailored to guide you through the post-treatment phase. Here’s what you’ll find:
- Recommendations for follow-up care, specifying check-up frequencies.
- Types of tests deemed necessary for ongoing monitoring.
- Insights into potential long-term effects resulting from your cancer treatments.
- Suggestions for embracing a healthy lifestyle post-treatment.
Maximizing the Benefits of a Survivorship Care Plan
A survivorship care plan is a tool to navigate life post-treatment and better communicate with your doctors. Once you have it, use it! Here are some guidelines for ensuring you’re maximizing its benefits:
Take it to your appointments: Bring your survivorship care plan to every medical appointment. This ensures that you and your healthcare team are aligned on the follow-up care strategy.
Understand your follow-up schedule: The plan clearly outlines when you need follow-up tests and identifies the responsible healthcare professionals. Refer to your plan often to stay on track with essential tests.
Where Do You Get a Survivorship Plan?
Your cancer treatment team may provide a survivorship care plan during or after treatment. If you have yet to receive one and would like one, you can ask your doctor.
You can also take advantage of the ASCO forms, keeping in mind they’re no substitute for records or guidelines from your doctor. Each cancer journey is unique; no one-size-fits-all plan can capture its intricacies. Talk to your doctor to understand the nuances of your individual treatment and follow-up care. The ASCO Cancer Treatment Plan and Survivorship Care Plan will aid in this collaborative process.
